2021 Subaru WRX vs 2021 Honda Accord

2021 Subaru WRX
2021 Subaru WRX
$27,495MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Honda Accord
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Subaru WRX
$27,495MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$27,495

MSRP

$24,970

Listings

181

Listings

1289

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Expert reviews

9.2 out of 10

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Powerful engine

  • Standard all-wheel drive

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy

  • Cramped back seat

  • Outdated technology

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Spacious

Cons

  • All-wheel drive not available

  • Outdated technology

2021 Subaru WRX Reviews Summary

With few exceptions, it’s become harder and harder to find an affordable sports car. Sure, you could get a base-model Mustang or Camaro, but they are cosplaying at being muscle cars. True low-cost, nimble sports cars like the Mazda Miata, Toyota 86, and Subaru BRZ just don’t make as much sense for as many shoppers.

That’s the appeal of hot hatches and sports sedans. Cars like the Volkswagen GTI, Volkswagen Golf R, Honda Civic Si, Honda Civic Type R, Hyundai Veloster N, and the vehicle you see here: the 2021 Subaru WRX. It provides sharp cornering and brisk acceleration, but in a sedan package that makes it more sensible than a true, dedicated sports car.

The WRX is no longer just a hotted-up version of the Subaru Impreza, as it's based on an older version of that compact car. This means many of the same positives, like standard all-wheel drive (AWD), and negatives, such as a low-grade cabin, apply. So is it worth paying the price of a very well-equipped economy car or even a midsize sedan for daily driving enjoyment? Read on to find out.

2021 Honda Accord Reviews Summary

For the 2021 model year, Honda is taking the Accord in a more elevated direction. The company has refined the Accord’s features list, added a trim level, and priced it right to compete against other heavyweights in the industry. Honda has made safety a priority in the 2021 Accord, helping this fresh version earn high praise.
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 268 hp H4

Engine

1.5L 192 hp I4

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

268 hp @ 5600 rpm

Horsepower

192 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

20

MPG City

30

MPG Highway

27

MPG Highway

38
2021 Subaru WRX
2021 Subaru WRX
$27,495MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Subaru WRX
$27,495MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$27,495
$24,970
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.8

4.8

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Read full review

9.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Powerful engine

  • Standard all-wheel drive

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy

  • Cramped back seat

  • Outdated technology

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Great handling

  • Spacious

Cons

  • All-wheel drive not available

  • Outdated technology

Summary

With few exceptions, it’s become harder and harder to find an affordable sports car. Sure, you could get a base-model Mustang or Camaro, but they are cosplaying at being muscle cars. True low-cost, nimble sports cars like the Mazda Miata, Toyota 86, and Subaru BRZ just don’t make as much sense for as many shoppers.

That’s the appeal of hot hatches and sports sedans. Cars like the Volkswagen GTI, Volkswagen Golf R, Honda Civic Si, Honda Civic Type R, Hyundai Veloster N, and the vehicle you see here: the 2021 Subaru WRX. It provides sharp cornering and brisk acceleration, but in a sedan package that makes it more sensible than a true, dedicated sports car.

The WRX is no longer just a hotted-up version of the Subaru Impreza, as it's based on an older version of that compact car. This means many of the same positives, like standard all-wheel drive (AWD), and negatives, such as a low-grade cabin, apply. So is it worth paying the price of a very well-equipped economy car or even a midsize sedan for daily driving enjoyment? Read on to find out.

For the 2021 model year, Honda is taking the Accord in a more elevated direction. The company has refined the Accord’s features list, added a trim level, and priced it right to compete against other heavyweights in the industry. Honda has made safety a priority in the 2021 Accord, helping this fresh version earn high praise.
Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 268 hp H4
1.5L 192 hp I4
Drive Train
AWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
268 hp @ 5600 rpm
192 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
20
30
MPG Highway
27
38
Look and feel

2021 Subaru WRX

7/10

2021 Honda Accord

7/10
The WRX's aesthetic has often been critiqued as overly youthful, drawing parallels to a rebellious teenager within the Subaru family. Compared to its more aggressive sibling, the WRX STI, the standard WRX's design is relatively subdued, missing the distinctive rear wing of the STI but maintaining a sporty appearance with its wedge-like front and short trunk lid. The aerodynamics are enhanced by functional design elements like the hood scoop. Inside, the WRX features a practical layout common to Subaru's compact cars, though the reliance on hard plastics and a design that hasn't seen a significant update since its 2015 introduction leave it feeling dated next to competitors like the Volkswagen GTI and Honda Civic Si. In contrast, the Honda Accord has received a mid-generation refresh for 2021, emphasizing sophisticated and practical design enhancements. The Accord's trims, ranging from the LX to the Touring 2.0T, offer varying levels of luxury and technology, with even the base model featuring LED lighting and a more refined interior than the Subaru. The higher trims add luxury features and a sleek design that positions the Accord as a more mature and refined choice in the sedan market.
Picture of 2021 Subaru WRX
Picture of 2021 Subaru WRX
Picture of 2021 Subaru WRX
Picture of 2021 Subaru WRX
Picture of 2021 Subaru WRX
Picture of 2021 Subaru WRX
Picture of 2021 Subaru WRX
Picture of 2021 Subaru WRX
Performance

2021 Subaru WRX

8/10

2021 Honda Accord

9/10
Performance ratings from CarGurus experts show a close contest, with the WRX scoring an 8 out of 10 and the Accord a 9 out of 10. The Subaru WRX is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It offers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT, with the latter being a less favored option among driving enthusiasts despite its efficiency. The WRX excels in handling and cornering, thanks to features like Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, though it suffers from a stiff ride. The Honda Accord offers a more balanced performance profile, with a choice between a 192-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and a more powerful 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four. The latter provides an engaging driving experience without compromising on fuel efficiency or comfort. The Accord's performance is tuned for daily drivability rather than outright sportiness, offering a smooth ride and precise handling.
Form and function

2021 Subaru WRX

7/10

2021 Honda Accord

9/10
When it comes to practicality and daily usability, both vehicles offer strengths in different areas, including their luggage capacities. The Subaru WRX provides up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk, which, while serviceable, is on the lower end compared to some competitors. Its interior, though functional, exhibits signs of aging in both design and choice of materials. The space available for passengers is adequate, but the layout does present some limitations when it comes to storing personal items like water bottles, affecting the overall convenience. The Honda Accord, however, shines in this aspect, offering a spacious and well-designed interior that can comfortably accommodate up to five adults. It boasts a significantly larger luggage capacity at 16.7 cubic feet in the trunk, surpassing the WRX and many of its rivals. This advantage, coupled with a focus on comfort, convenience, and practicality in its cabin design, makes the Accord an exemplary choice for families or individuals who prioritize a refined interior experience alongside superior functionality.
Technology

2021 Subaru WRX

7/10

2021 Honda Accord

9/10
Technology ratings mirror the earlier trend, with the WRX receiving a 7 out of 10 and the Accord a 9 out of 10. The WRX's infotainment system, while functional, feels outdated compared to the competition. It includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the system's graphics and interface lack the modern appeal of newer systems. The Honda Accord, however, offers a more contemporary technology package with its 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is both attractive and user-friendly. Standard features include Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with higher trims adding luxury tech amenities like a wireless phone charger and a premium audio system. The Accord's focus on technology enhances its overall appeal, especially for tech-savvy consumers.
Safety

2021 Subaru WRX

6/10

2021 Honda Accord

9/10
Safety is another area where the Honda Accord outshines the Subaru WRX, with CarGurus experts rating the Accord at 9 out of 10 compared to the WRX's 6 out of 10. The WRX's safety features are limited on base trims and require upgrading to higher trims and selecting the CVT to access Subaru's EyeSight system. The Accord, conversely, comes loaded with safety features across all trims, including the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist technologies. It has received top marks from safety organizations, solidifying its position as a safe and reliable family sedan.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Subaru WRX is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores 9.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Honda Accord emerges as the more highly recommended vehicle, offering a superior blend of comfort, technology, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The choice between the WRX and Accord ultimately hinges on individual priorities: performance and driving excitement or comfort, safety, and overall value. For those seeking a well-rounded sedan that excels in nearly every category, the 2021 Honda Accord is the clear winner.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Subaru WRX is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores 9.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Honda Accord emerges as the more highly recommended vehicle, offering a superior blend of comfort, technology, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The choice between the WRX and Accord ultimately hinges on individual priorities: performance and driving excitement or comfort, safety, and overall value. For those seeking a well-rounded sedan that excels in nearly every category, the 2021 Honda Accord is the clear winner.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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